Tomorrow (15 May) is the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, an annual UK-wide event giving us all the opportunity to focus on working towards good mental health, as well as encouraging people to seek support when needed.
This year’s theme is anxiety - a normal emotion we all experience that can sometimes get out of control and become difficult to manage. It’s worth noting that lots of things can lead to feelings of anxiety, including exam pressures, relationships, and big life events.
Looking after your mental health is particularly important during this key exam and assessment period. Our Wellbeing team will be on our Egham campus throughout this week to offer support and advice on topics that you might be finding particularly challenging.
On Tuesday (16 May), the team will be in the Davison Building between 11am-2pm, working with local NHS teams to host a World Café, giving you the opportunity to talk to them about your healthcare experiences - including mental health – and your needs. On Wednesday (17 May), our Wellbeing team will be holding the Festival of Wellbeing between 11am-2pm in the Davison building. Here, you can learn ways to help manage anxiety and support good mental wellbeing by focusing on the ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’ and teams from Togetherall, Your Sanctuary and the Samaritans will join us.
On Thursday (18 May), we are encouraging our whole community to get involved in the nationwide Wear it Green Day to raise awareness and funds for mental health support via the Mental Health Foundation. More information on all these events and how to donate can be found below.
I look forward to seeing you at an event next week, and please don’t forget our Wellbeing teams are here all year round to support your mental health and wellbeing. You can access our services on here.
Helen Groenendaal
Head of Wellbeing